A relaxed approach to big topics
The Alpha-course at the Seinäjoki parish offer an opportunity to reflect on the most important questions in life and dive into the foundations of Christianity. Is this all there is to life? Who is Jesus? How and why should I read the Bible?
Is this all there is to life? Who is Jesus? How and why should I read the Bible?
“These days, the world feels especially uncertain, but I have noticed that there is still an interest in spirituality among both young people and adults. What do I believe in? And what do I turn to if something truly major happens? The Alpha-course is a great place to come and think about answers to these questions”, says Varpu Kivekäs, a member of the course team.
You can join the course for free, even if Christianity is entirely new to you – or even if Sunday school left you with some unanswered questions you’re still looking to answer.
Time for reflection
The thought behind the Alpha-course is to offer a moment for reflection. There is far too much rush in everyday life that need your attention right in the moment and it’s hard to find the time for what are the biggest questions in life.
“Life is full of things that always seem much more urgent than asking “is there a God or not?”. This causes the most important matters of all just to remain unresolved”, says Anu Mäki-Latvala, one of the members of the course team.
The Alfa-course meetings start with a joint coffee break, after which we listen to a thirty-minute introduction to the evening’s theme. After that, the conversation continues in smaller groups. There are twelve meetings scheduled for the autumn season.
“In that time, the group has a chance to develop and build trust between the members”, states Kivekäs.
New friends
The themes of the Alpha-course range from the basics of Christianity to the the person of Jesus, faith, prayer, the Bible, God’s guidance and the church.
“In the discussion everybody can be themselves. You can actively join the conversation or just as well come and simply listen in. The purpose is not to find one correct answer for every question, but to give space to interpretations, questions, and different experiences”, says Mäki-Latvala.
From last year’s course, participants took away not only meaningful conversations but also new friends. When we take time to focus on the deep questions of life, connections form naturally; and they don’t need to end with the course.
“We welcome all kinds of people, but young adults and students are especially welcome”, says Kivekäs, who works together with young people and students.
TRANSLATION: Ennio Roberto Sapatiello
Alpha-course
- A free course focusing on the fundamentals of Christianity and life’s big questions
- Every Thursday from 10.9.–26.11.2026, from 18–20 at Kirkonkranni Seinäjoella. Please note that, exceptionally, the course will not take place on 15.10.2026.
